This Illinois City Is Still One of America’s Hottest Housing Markets
Rockford, Illinois Still Among America's Hottest Housing Markets
The results are in, and one of the best housing markets in America remains this city in Illinois.
Rockford Falls, But Holds Top 10 Spot in 2025 Rankings
It has now remained one of the hottest cities for homes in America, despite dropping a few places since 2024.
Midwest vs. East Coast: Who’s Leading the Housing Market Race?
Then again, it was ranked as the #1 hottest housing market at that point, and you can't stay at the top forever. Anyway, Rockford is still in the top ten, sitting at #9 on America's hottest housing markets list according to Realtor.com.
READ MORE: Unique Mid‑Century Home for Sale in Rockford, Illinois
At the top this time is Manchester-Nashua, New Hampshire. The top ten are split, though, with five going on the East Coast and another five in the Midwest.
These Midwest Cities Are Now Hotter Than Rockford
Midwest housing markets hotter than Rockford at the moment are:
- Canton-Massillon, OH
- Toledo, OH
- Lansing-East Lansing, MI
- Appleton, WI
Rockford Offers the Cheapest Homes in the Top 20
Even though Rockford has fallen a few spots, it offers the cheapest median homes of any of the cities in the top 20 on the list at $248,888.
READ MORE: See Inside One of Rockford's Most Iconic Houses on the Rock River
Unemployment Remains a Concern in the Rockford Market
At the same time, Rockford also has a cringe-inducing 6.3% unemployment rate, which is the highest by a whole percentage point over any other market. That said, the number has dipped from the 8.1% it was at in November of 2024.
Will Rockford Stay in the Top 10 Housing Markets?
After ranking #3 in the spring of 2025, and now dropping to #9 in the summer, you have to wonder how much longer Rockford will be on the list.
Why Rockford’s Housing Demand Remains Strong
Rockford’s hotness means that high demand is met with low inventory as buyers claim available homes...This affordable area has seen sustained demand this year as mortgage rates and home prices deter buyers from searching in higher-priced areas.
Final Thought: Slipping or Still Sizzling?
Yeah, Rockford might be slipping, but the city is still hotter than a blacktopped driveway in July.
How To Find Out If You Have Unclaimed Money or Property in Illinois
Gallery Credit: illinoistreasurer.gov
Can You Identify These 20 Intersections in Rockford?
Gallery Credit: Google Street View